A quiet Leechburg block turned into a free-for-all for a group of teenagers this week, as police say at least eight unlocked cars were ransacked for cash, purses, electronics, and even a gun. The string of break-ins has neighbors on edge and officers combing through doorbell camera footage for clues.
Doorbell video shows trio rifling through cars
Home security video reviewed by WPXI appears to show three suspects casually trying car doors and going through vehicles in Leechburg on Monday. Investigators told the station the group targeted eight unlocked cars and made off with purses, cash, electronics, and a firearm.
Mayor: lock up before you turn in
Leechburg Mayor Doreen Smeal is pushing a simple but urgent message to residents: do not make it easy for thieves.
"Please, lock your doors…think about this when you’re going home at night. I know we all have key fobs and sometimes we get, you know, not really sure what to do and they get unlocked, but just, before you go to bed, make sure your cars are locked," she told WPXI, urging neighbors to stay alert and report anything that looks off to police.
How to share tips or video
Anyone with information is asked to call the Leechburg Police Department’s non-emergency line at 724-842-8531, according to Leechburg Borough. The department, located at 260 Market Street, is also inviting residents to share doorbell or security video clips and screenshots that may show the suspects or their movements.
Legal stakes rise when a gun is stolen
Investigators say one of the most troubling pieces of the case is that a firearm was taken. That detail could significantly raise the stakes for whoever is responsible. Under Pennsylvania law, theft of a firearm can be prosecuted as a felony, according to the state criminal code.
Simple prevention steps go a long way
Police say these break-ins have a familiar pattern: suspects look for the path of least resistance, and unlocked vehicles are an easy target. Safety groups routinely recommend basic precautions such as locking doors every time, even in your own driveway, and keeping valuables out of sight or taking them inside.
The National Insurance Crime Bureau offers similar advice and notes that thieves often "walk through parking lots testing handles," hoping to find a car that was left unlocked. The bottom line is the advice your grandparents probably gave you: before you walk away, hit the lock button.
